Watch: Dear Al Sharpton

Al Sharpton is probably one of the most recognizable Civil Rights leaders due to his work leading marches, protests and initiatives over the last few decades on issues of racial injustice. We respect it and appreciate the efforts of anyone fighting for justice, but it’s time to recognize that over the last year we’ve seen our peers really step up to the plate in the struggle against police brutality and systematic racism as a whole. From protests to die-ins, spreading awareness on social media and organizing throughout the country, we’ve been on the forefront.

The movement that has been sparked in response to the killing of Michael Brown and so many others, is our generation’s fight but unfortunately we’re being met with resistance from Sharpton and others who aren’t ready to pass the baton. The reality is that it’s our generation’s job to define this movement for ourselves. We encourage the elders that have paved a way for us to stand with us in support, but don’t resist the change.